Application SATSAGEN by Albert IU1KVL represents an exceptionally efficient software tool that transforms affordable SDR transceivers and receivers into a comprehensive measuring instrument. It creates a fully functional spectrum analyzer from devices like ADALM-PLUTO, RTL-SDR, HackRF, USRP, RSP1, AirSpy, and others. RF signálový generátor a skalárny sieťový analyzátor (SNA) s funkciou sledovacieho generátora (tracking generator).
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News and optimizations in version 0.9.5.1
Version 0.9.5.1 brings several new features and fixes. A significant new feature is the support for automatic commands via the autoexec.txt file, the ability to set the cycle time or sweep of the spectrum analyzer, and support for external mixers for RTL and HackRF devices.
HackRF and USRP can also be used as local oscillator sources for external mixers.
A significant speedup for ADALM-PLUTO users is up to a 62% increase in VNA scanning speed. An overflow issue with ADALM-PLUTO at 1 MSPS when connected via TCP/IP and at 4.6 MSPS when connected via USB has also been fixed.
Supported hardware and system requirements
SATSAGEN is designed for the Windows operating system, and the official documentation states support from Windows 7 to Windows 11. Specific computer performance requirements depend on the SDR used, sampling frequency, FFT, bandwidth, and selected measurement mode. High data rates also require consideration of the communication interface used.
| SDR Hardware | Operating Mode | Frequency Range | Usage in SATSAGEN |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADALM-PLUTO | Full-Duplex | 70 MHz – 6 GHz | Spectrum Analyzer, RF Generator, SNA / Tracking Generator |
| HackRF One | Half-Duplex | 1 MHz – 6 GHz | Spectrum Analyzer, RF Generator, SNA (with fast RX/TX switching) |
| RTL-SDR / Airspy / RSP | Receive Only (RX) | according to model (e.g., 24 MHz – 1.7 GHz) | Standalone Spectrum Analyzer and Spectrum Monitor |
Practical Use in Amateur Radio Workshop
The greatest advantage of SATSAGEN in the designer's workshop is the scalar network analyzer function. When connected to the full-duplex ADALM-PLUTO, it can measure the transmission characteristics of intermediate frequency, bandpass (BPF), or low-pass filters (LPF) in real-time, as well as determine the attenuation of coaxial cables (S21 measurement).
When connecting an external RF directional coupler (directional bridge), SATSAGEN allows for precise measurement of reflection loss (S11 / Return Loss) and determines the resonant frequency and bandwidth of antenna systems.
The RF generator is used for calibrating S-meters of receivers, adjusting the gain of mixers, or measuring sensitivity. However, it is necessary to consider hardware limitations during use. In practical measurements, one must account for the limitations imposed by the SDR used and the entire measurement chain. The dynamic range depends, for example, on crosstalk between the transmitting and receiving paths, linearity, gain settings, signal levels, calibration, and external components used. For more demanding measurements, it may be advisable to use separate RX and TX devices, attenuators,articles, filters, or suitable directional elements. Additionally, the output signals of SDR transmitters contain unwanted spectral components and harmonics, so for precise measurements, it is advisable to use external attenuator articles and filters to limit their impact on the measurement.